New to guns

[Wernham]

Hello Guys,

Great forum with lots of good info. I am new to guns and like to do lots of research before making a decision. Recently completed my PAL course and sent off my paperwork so now have lots of waiting to to decide on my first purchase. I am manly looking for a .22LR riffle for varmit control, and also so fun shooting and possible target shooting. I have a budget of around $300 for a riffle, and another $200 for accessories (locks, case, cleaning kit, scope?, etc)

What would you guys recommend for riffle? I at the moment I am thinking either a Savage MK2 or Ruger 10/22. Are there other guns you would consider under the $300 mark? I think the Savage would be a good idea so I could focus more on the shot vs just rapidly shooting rounds off with the ruger. What is everyone thoughts? I want to make myself the best possible markman I can.

Also what is everyone thoughts on buying new vs used? typically when I think buying used I think of buying someones problems, or are these guns pretty trouble free? Not having any experience with repairing gun, I am thinking more new.

I am located between Sarnia, London and Chatham. I know there are lots of gun shops in the area. Any recommendations or places to stay away from? Would you recommend buying from Canadian Tire (I do get a 25% discount) or stay with a knowledge of a true gun shop?

What accessories do you recommend or any stay away from?

[Johnny_Zanni]

I would recommend the Savage mkII, I have 2 and love them. I have bought guns new as well as used without problems. If you are unsure about a used gun your looking at then don't be afraid to ask questions to the seller about it. I also don't see a problem buying from Canadian Tire if they have what you want for a decent price, that being said, I've only bought from local shops.

[6MT]

Hello!

[thehook92a1]

Hello and to CGN enjoy the site

[1861]

Hello & welcome.

[Tuhlaps]

I would recommend the savage. It was my first gun and I love it. I have a cheap Simmons 3-9×32 ao scope on it and is really accurate out to 50 yards. It is also a great varmint gun I do a lot of raccoon control at my cottage.

[SIG FAN]

I have a Remington 597, but it's kinda meh. Not sure if I would buy one again. Savage makes great bolt guns in .22. The new Ruger American Compact .22 LR looks awesome (but slightly out of your price range)!

[Found]

I would recommend a bolt gun and open sights to start. An older Cooey will save you some money and last a life time. Something new would be a Savage MK2 you suggested which are in your price range. The semi’s don’t teach good marksmanship and some of the guys who buy the 10/22 spend more on add-ons than they do the original purchase.

[sunray]

Having that 25% matters(Epp's lists 10/22's at $306.38. Don't know if Crappy Tire even carries Rugers.), but don't expect anybody at Crappy Tire to know anything about firearms. No training for minimum wagers.
Don't discount buying used. It takes a lot of abuse to damage a modern rifle, even a .22. Of course, you won't see used firearms at Crappy Tire. All the other stuff will be there though.

[nowarningshot]

Your on the right track with those two choices. If you had $200 more perhaps a CZ. If you are looking at used may i suggest not buying a semi. In buying a semi that someone else has done many magazine dumps on, you may be buying a inaccurate rifle. So semi 10/22 is good, but new not used.

Another thought...old Cooey bolt gun. You could get one in the $80 range, for the most part they are pretty accurate. If you find its not for you, its not a lot of money and risk as someone will take it off of your hands for that.